Benjamin Hassman

Benjamin Hassman is an Associate Professor of Instruction in the Department of Rhetoric at the University of Iowa, serving as Co-Director of the Conversation Center. His academic background includes a PhD in Philosophy of Language, focusing on paradoxes and their implications for language-world relationships. His current research emphasizes informal and intercultural communication as critical components of learning. Dr. Hassman has been involved with peer-leadership initiatives such as the Berwick Boys Foundation and service-learning programs at Onondaga Community College. He teaches courses in general education rhetoric, advanced speaking skills, and coordinates the RHET 2090 Conversation Practicum.

• Affiliations: Department of Rhetoric, Conversation Center

His scholarly contributions bridge philosophical inquiry into language with practical applications in education and intercultural dialogue. Notably, he received the 2021 CLAS International Engagement Teaching Award for his pedagogical innovations.

• Labs/Teams: Conversation Center (co-director)